Links

Breadcrumbs

Testing FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I determine what classification to test for and if I qualify
for a position?

Visit the jobs website at https://jobs.uis.edu to
see what classifications the Human Resources office is currently
testing for, and what the qualifications are.

What is a Civil Service Exam? How can I prepare?

Each Civil Service classification has its own exam, which come
in many different formats. When you are scheduled for an exam,
information such as time limit, exam components, and other related
information is given to you. As for preparing, many of our
exams are knowledge tests. This information could have been
gathered through your past work experience and education. Some are
education/experience tests, for which preparation is not necessary.

How do I apply for a Civil Service job?

Determine what Civil Service classifications are currently
available for testing on our web site.

Review the minimum qualifications for the classification in
which you are interested.

Submit or update your electronic application (It is the applicant’s
responsibility to supply information that clearly and accurately
represents his/her qualifications. Failure to do so may result
in being determined ‘not qualified’).

Submit an electronic exam request.

Receive notification of an exam date and time.

Take the examination.

Receive a notice regarding your score. You may also check
your score and register placement through the electronic application
menu.

How do I submit an electronic application and exam request?

Login to the site (If you are a new applicant click Create Account,
type in the information requested to create a logon, and make up
a password that you can remember. When processed, your Logon ID will
be emailed to you.)

Once you have logged on, you can update your application by clicking
Edit or you can submit an Exam Request. New applicants will
need to complete the Civil Service Employment Application Part 1
and 2 first, then you will be allowed to submit an Exam Request.
Be sure to fill out the application completely giving details on
your work experience.

How are Civil Service jobs filled?

CS jobs are filled through a testing process. Individuals take
examinations for specific classifications and their scores are placed
on lists called registers. Scores appear on a register in order, from
highest to lowest. Registers change each time new scores are
added or removed. When a vacancy occurs in a department, those eligible
to interview are referred in accordance with CS rules and notified
by mail. Generally, the top three candidates are contacted
for an interview opportunity.

How long does my score stay on the register?

Generally speaking, your score is good for up to two years. You
are also removed upon hire, request, or failure to respond to the
Human Resources office, among other reasons.

Can I take the test over again?

You may request to re-write the exam up to three times within
one calendar year. Each instance of the exam must be taken
at least 30 days apart, and this applies to all State University
testing centers.

Can I transfer my score?

Yes, you may request to transfer your test scores to other State
University institutions. For more information, please contact
Human Resources.

Terms and Definitions

Classification: Assignment of a job to a class. Jobs similar in duties, responsibilities, and worth are grouped together and given the same standard title.

Job: A specific group of duties and responsibilities served by one employee.

Register: A list of candidates who have taken and passed the Civil Service examination, per classification. Registers are listed in order of highest score.

Veterans Preference: Veterans who were discharged under honorable conditions and certain other individuals may be eligible for additional points on an original entry Civil Service exam.